Dubai Tourist Visa: How to Apply, Price & Requirements

A tourist visa is necessary for those travelling to Dubai for tourism-related activities, except for those from GCC countries and other visa-free countries who will be granted a visa on arrival. Since India is not part of this list, a tourist visa for Dubai is required. 

This visa can be valid for up to 30 days with either single or multiple entries, and a long-term tourist visa is available for those who wish to stay for up to 90 days.

It’s important to note that although it’s commonly referred to as a “Dubai” tourist visa, it’s officially called the UAE tourist visa and is valid throughout the rest of the UAE as well.

Dubai Tourist Visa: 2 Types

The government of the UAE offers multiple visa options for individuals who want to enter the country. One of these is the Visit Visa, which permits individuals to engage in multiple activities while in Dubai, while the tourist visa has limitations on the permitted activities.

The tourist visa is a subcategory of the Visit Visa and is issued for a fixed duration of time.

Below are the different types of tourist visas available:

• The Dubai tourist visa for 14 days allows individuals to stay in the UAE for a duration of 14 days only, as indicated by its name. It is an ideal option for those who wish to explore the city but have limited time. However, it should be noted that no further travel is allowed after the two-month validity period of the visa. The 14-day duration starts from the day the visitor arrives in Dubai.
• The 30-day Dubai tourist visa is designed for those who want to stay in Dubai for a longer period of time. It allows for a stay of 30 days and permits the visa holder to visit other cities in the UAE. The visa must be used within 60 days of its issuance and cannot be used for travel after that period. However, under certain rules and conditions, the validity of the visa may be extended for up to 10 additional days.

If the sole purpose of an individual’s travel to Dubai is tourism, they can select from the above-mentioned two visas. However, those who need to travel to Dubai multiple times within a certain period can choose the Multiple Entry Visa.

How to Apply for Dubai Tourist Visa?

The UAE embassy doesn’t issue tourist visas to ordinary passport holders, and sponsorship is required to apply for one. This process is typically facilitated by Dubai-based airlines, travel agencies, or hotels, who can apply for the visa on the applicant’s behalf to the official issuing authority in Dubai.

The procedure for obtaining a Dubai tourist visa can be outlined as follows –

Step 1: First, decide on the application method that suits you best. If you decide to use a travel agency, make sure that it is trustworthy and reputable. Next, determine the specific type of visa that you need. After that, collect all the required documents according to the type of visa you are applying for.

Step 2: Then, complete the Dubai tourist visa application form, which can be found on airline websites or provided by travel agencies. Upload the necessary documents to the appropriate online portals and pay the visa fees online. Finally, submit your application.

It is important to provide accurate information and genuine documents to avoid visa rejection, which could affect future visa applications. If you are travelling to Dubai on Emirates or Fly Dubai Airlines, you can apply for a visa at one of the Dubai Visa Service Centers in India.

If you have a sponsor who is a relative or friend, they can apply for your visa at an authority in Dubai.

Eligibility for Dubai Tourist Visa

To be eligible to apply for the permit, you must fulfil the following conditions:

• Your passport validity must be at least six months from the date of travel.
• You should have an ordinary passport.
• Your reason for travel should be solely for tourism purposes.
• If you are a female under 18 years old, you need to be accompanied by a family member.
• You should have sufficient funds to support your stay in the country.
• You should be in good health to travel to Dubai.

Dubai Tourist Visa Requirements

Individuals who intend to travel to Dubai on a tourist visa must provide certain documents, including a valid passport with at least six months of validity left and scanned copies of the first and last pages of the passport.

The application form for the visa must be filled out and signed, and a recent colour photograph of the applicant must be included that adheres to certain standards laid down by the government. 

The itinerary, including travel dates, hotel information, and ticket copies, must also be submitted to demonstrate that the applicant intends to leave the country as planned.

While financial data and address proof are generally not required, it is advisable to have them ready in case they are requested by officials who doubt the applicant’s financial status or permanent residency address.

Additional documents may be requested by the authorities, depending on the specific circumstances of the individual applicant. It is essential to have all relevant information readily available in case it is needed.

Photo Specifications

• The size of the photo required for a Dubai tourist visa is 35X45 mm, and it should be a recent one.
• The applicant’s face should be directed towards the camera, with open eyes looking straight at the camera.
• The background should be plain white, and headgear is allowed for religious purposes.
• Only prescription eyewear glasses are allowed, and the applicant should have a neutral facial expression.

Dubai Tourist Visa Price

The cost of a Dubai tourist visa can vary depending on several factors including the number of entries, the duration of the visa, and whether any express options are chosen. Additionally, the service charges of the airline, hotel or travel agency may also affect the final cost.

Dubai Tourist Visa Processing Time

The typical processing time for a Dubai tourist visa is usually between 3 to 5 working days, although this timeframe may vary depending on various factors, such as the type of entry, the duration of the visa, and whether you opt for express processing.

Additionally, the processing time may be impacted by any issues that may arise with the documentation provided. The time frame for processing may also depend on how you applied for the visa. Your processing time may be expedited if you have a history of travel, such as holding a visa to the UK, USA, etc in the past five years.

Note: You need to enquire at the Dubai Visa Processing Centre also known as DVPC to know the Dubai Tourist Visa processing time.

After obtaining the visa:

• Before travelling, make sure to print out your visa and bring it with you as one of your travel documents.
• Verify that you have all required travel documents, such as your passport and identification papers.
• Remember to check the validity period of your visa, as overstaying can lead to severe consequences such as heavy fines and legal action.
• If you obtained your visa through a Dubai-based airline, you may be required to fly with that airline to the UAE.

Upon arrival at the border, you will need to present both your visa and passport to the border control officers. It is important to note that the visa is not a guarantee of entry into the country; the decision is ultimately up to the Dubai border control officers. While in Dubai, you are allowed to visit any of the Emirates. 

However, it is prohibited to work or engage in any business activities while on a tourist permit. If you wish to extend your visa, you can apply for an extension. Dubai has strict laws that must be followed, including respecting the country’s customs and traditions.